The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) India has strengthened its mission to advance gender equality, women’s empowerment, and safety by appointing acclaimed actor, producer, and entrepreneur Kriti Sanon as its new Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality. The announcement, made at an event in Mumbai, underscores UNFPA’s long-standing commitment to dismantling barriers that limit opportunities for women and girls in India.
For over five decades, UNFPA India has partnered with the Government of India and civil society to expand opportunities for women and girls, eliminate gender-based violence, and foster a society where every woman and girl can live with dignity and fulfil her potential. Kriti Sanon’s appointment marks an important step in amplifying this vision, especially among young people.
Addressing Key Challenges
Despite significant progress in education, leadership, and workforce participation, harmful social norms continue to hinder equality in India. UNFPA highlights some key challenges:
- Gender-biased sex selection remains one of the starkest markers of inequality, rooted in entrenched discrimination and son preference.
- Economic potential: Closing the gender gap in the workforce could boost India’s GDP by 27% by 2030.
- Gender-based violence continues to impact almost one in three women in their lifetime, demanding stronger prevention and support systems.
- Child marriage: Despite progress, 23% of women aged 20–24 are still married before the age of 18, limiting their education, health, and opportunity.
Kriti Sanon Joins the Movement
Before the event, Kriti Sanon joined four young gender equality changemakers, pledging to lend her voice to dismantling barriers such as child marriage, son preference, and violence against women and girls.
Speaking at the announcement, Kriti Sanon said: “I am deeply honored to join UNFPA India as their Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality. This role provides an incredible platform to advocate for the rights and choices of women and girls, ensuring they have the freedom to make their own decisions, pursue their dreams, and live free from violence and discrimination. I am deeply passionate about empowering every woman and girl, helping amplify their voices, tell their stories, and inspire collective action towards a more equal and just society. I look forward to working closely with UNFPA India to make a tangible difference in their lives.”
Andrea M. Wojnar, UNFPA India Representative, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Kriti Sanon as our Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality. Her powerful voice, passion, and widespread influence will be instrumental in amplifying our message and reaching a broader audience, especially young people. Kriti’s dedication to advancing the rights, opportunities, and safety of women and girls aligns perfectly with UNFPA’s vision of an equal and just society. We are confident that her efforts will inspire meaningful change and accelerate progress towards ensuring that every woman and girl can live with dignity and fulfil her potential.”
Pio Smith, UNFPA Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, added:“Kriti Sanon’s appointment as UNFPA India’s Honorary Ambassador for Gender Equality is a powerful and significant milestone in our pursuit of the full and equal rights of all women and girls. Her influence extends far beyond India, and her voice will resonate across the Asia-Pacific region, where millions are striving for equal rights and opportunities. By championing their aspirations, Kriti will amplify the call for gender equality, inspire young people and help accelerate progress towards a future where every woman and girl can thrive.”
As part of her two-year engagement with UNFPA India, Kriti Sanon will actively contribute to the organization’s ongoing efforts by engaging with communities through field visits, lending her voice to awareness campaigns, and representing UNFPA at national and international forums.
This collaboration not only strengthens the visibility of critical issues like gender-based violence, child marriage, and equal opportunities but also reinforces UNFPA’s long-standing mission to create a world where every woman and girl can make her own choices, live with dignity, and fulfil her potential.
